Car accidents are stressful enough, but when the other driver does not cooperate and leaves the scene of the accident, it can be even more difficult to navigate the aftermath. After a hit-and-run car accident in Cordova, you might be wondering about your legal options. A successful settlement could reimburse you for the cost of your medical treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses stemming from the crash.
When you are injured in a collision where the other driver fled the scene, you need an experienced auto collision lawyer on your side. It can be hard to locate the other driver after a crash, but when you retain a seasoned legal professional, they can investigate the circumstances of the crash and hold the negligent driver responsible. Contact The Law Office of David E. Gordon if you have questions about your options for financial recovery after a hit-and-run.
Reasons Drivers Flee the Scene of a Crash
While it might seem obvious that when vehicles are in a collision, both drivers must stop and exchange information, hit-and-runs are more common than most people think. Not only is it illegal to flee the scene of an accident, but the other driver might also be injured and need help. Someone who commits a hit-and-run can face criminal charges and be liable for negligence to the injured person.
There are various reasons someone might leave the scene of an accident, for example:
- They are uninsured
- They are inexperienced or panicked
- They have active warrants against them
- They are driving on a suspended license
- They are under the influence of drugs or alcohol
When a driver causes a wreck due to careless or reckless conduct, they can be held financially liable. The same holds true even if they leave the scene of the crash. Speak to a Cordova hit-and-run car accident lawyer about locating the driver responsible.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Car Accident
Car crashes typically happen in a matter of moments. As such, the minutes after a hit-and-run are incredibly important. Someone involved in a hit-and-run should contact the police immediately. Not only can the police potentially identify the driver, but they will also document the wreck. The accident report will be the official record of what happened, and injured parties need this to pursue a claim. Next, seek medical attention for anyone who is injured in the accident. Sometimes, hit-and-run collisions involve pedestrians or cyclists who could be injured and need prompt medical assistance.
Additional steps a person should take after being involved in a hit-and-run crash in Cordova include:
- Writing down the at-fault driver’s license plate number or the make and model of their vehicle
- Taking photographs and videos of the accident scene and injuries
- Asking bystanders for their contact information, as they could be potential witnesses
- Contacting a hit-and-run car accident attorney for representation
A seasoned legal professional can help obtain evidence to support the case and negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of the injured person. In the event the at-fault driver is not located, the injured person’s insurance may cover the claim.
Contact a Cordova Hit-and-Run Car Accident Attorney
When you are involved in a hit-and-run car accident in Cordova, you might feel helpless. Not knowing the identity of the person who hit you can be overwhelming and make it difficult to recover the compensation you need to cover medical bills and other losses related to the wreck.
However, if you suffered injuries in a hit-and-run accident, you are not without legal recourse. An experienced lawyer can advise you of your options and even help you locate the driver. If the driver cannot be located, your insurance may cover the losses from the accident. Call The Law Office of David E. Gordon today to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated legal professional.
